Rhetorical Analysis Of You By Maya Angelou

Next, Angelou uses different types of sentences to highlight how she fights oppression with confidence. For example, Angelou asks, “Does my sassiness upset you?” (5) and “Does my haughtiness offend you?” (17). These rhetorical questions bring a level of sass and confidence to her argument. Angelou illustrates that one can exude confidence and love themselves, and if that bugs someone, that is their problem. This makes the hate from oppressors virtually irrelevant. Additionally, Angelou declares, “But still, like dust, I’ll rise”(4) and “I rise” (43). These declarative sentences show Angelou’s strength and boldness. The period at the end of these sentences makes the reader feel as though Angelou’s statements are facts, and that she will indeed
rise. She acknowledges her self-worth and convinces the audience of her ability to overcome oppression.